Jerry Sponseller

Jerry Sponseller, 69, passed away Tuesday afternoon, April 16, 2024. He was born June 27, 1954, in South Bend, Indiana to Thurman Sponseller and Laura (Adams) Sponseller, who both preceded him in death.

            Jerry’s love for martial arts and fitness began 50 years ago, and has been teaching since the 1970’s.  He opened his martial arts studio in South Bend in 1975. Jerry, a grand master, was an eighth-degree black belt Tae Kwon Do master. His studio was more than a place of physical training, it was a sanctuary of self-discovery and empowerment. Under his guidance, countless individuals found not only strength in body, but also resilience in spirit.

            Jerry’s memory will live on through his family; daughter Angela(Junior) Mares; brothers Richard Sponseller, Roger (Norma) Sponseller; grandchildren; Austin DeVreese, Hunter Townley; great grandchild, Odin DeVreese; sisters Penny (Kenton) Grimm, and Shirley (Irv) Yoder; former wife Lari Sponseller; as well as his many friends and students.

             A visitation will be held on Saturday April 20, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 PM, in Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka, with a memorial service to follow at 4:00 PM.

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